OPEN HOUSES ARE HARD WORK. FROM DECLUTTERING, CLEANING, AND REARRANGING FURNITURE, THERE’S A LOT THAT GOES ON BEHIND-THE-SCENES. HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL TIPS AND TRICKS.
- PUT JEWELRY, MEDICATIONS, & OTHER VALUABLES IN A SAFE PLACE – Don’t tempt people’s honesty. While the hosting agent will try to keep an eye on everyone that walks through the door, depending on the amount of traffic, they may not be able to watch everyone at all times. Make sure to safely secure all firearms, medications, and valuables (including jewelry) prior to the start of the Open House.
- CLEAN & DECLUTTER – Clean your house top to bottom. Make sure personal items (think bedside night stands, bathroom countertops) are stored away and out of sight. Buyers do focus on storage space, so take advantage of what your home has to offer. Clean and organize closets, cabinets, and drawers. If possible, keep the basement and garage as clean and organized as possible. Buyers want to imagine themselves – not you – living in your house.
- PETS – Make arrangements for your pet to be out of the house, and make sure to hide all pet accessories including food/ water bowls, pet beds, toys & treats, etc. Also, please be conscious of eliminating any pet smells (including litter boxes!).
- LIGHTEN UP – Buyers are drawn to bright and airy spaces. Make sure there’s enough natural light throughout the house by pushing back drapes and opening blinds. Double check that all light bulbs are currently working as the showing agent will most likely not have the time or resources to change out bad light bulbs before the start of the Open House.
- SHOW OFF THOSE EXTRA FEATURES – Have a top-of-the-line stereo system that will convey with the house? Have a fountain feature as part of the backyard landscaping? Now is the time to tactfully show off those bonus amenities. While loud music can be distracting, soft background music can help set the stage, as can a peaceful fountain.
- TAKE CARE OF OUTDOOR SPACES – With so much to do inside, it’s easy to overlook your outdoor spaces. Make sure your yard is clear of fallen branches, sports equipment, pet droppings, etc. and that all garden/landscaping beds have been weeded and mulched. Mow the lawn and trim overgrown shrubs. Sweep all front/back walkways. Set up all outdoor patio furniture as if you were hosting a backyard dinner for friends and family. Make the front door/porch inviting with a new WELCOME mat and possibly some potted plants.
